Boston Spa Parish Council - Topics/Debates

Topics/Debates

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Topics/Debates

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SPEEDING	PARISH PRECEPT	STREET LIGHTING	HIGH STREET	DOGS n'THINGS
BUSES	TESCO

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I AM IN TOTAL SUPORT OF A TESCO IN THE VILLAGE AS I DONT THINK I SHOULD BE DICTATED TO BY THE BIGOTS OF THIS VILLAGE WHERE I CAN SHOP OR CARNT SHOP DONT YOU THINK YOU SHOULD SORT OUTTHE SHOPS THAT ARE ALREADY CLOSED FIRST LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR REPLY
Christopher Pease May 15

I am strongly opposed to a Tesco store being opened in the Crown Hotel building. I will not shop at such a store if it does open. Boston Spa is fortunate to have a variety of locally owned shops along its High Street. I believe that if a Tesco store is opened it will have an adverse effect on many of these stores. It will change the centre of gravity of the centre away from the Royal Hotel building, and reduce footfall for all of the shops at the bottom end of the High Street. The end result could well be the closure of several of the other shops in this part of the High Street. Tesco may offer some cheaper prices in the short term. However, in the long term it will reduce choice and value for people shopping in Boston Spa. Paul Heaton May 13

I personally support the plans for Tesco to come to Boston Spa, it will bring affordable products to our village. As someone who is not of a high income I find that current shops do not offer a decent selection of products and do not offer items at a reasonable price. Also I am someone who suffers from a severe peanut allergy and find that in the current selection of shops in the village I can barely find any suitable food products due to for example baking methods. Tesco provide clear efficient labelling that I can follow. It seems a grand assumption has been made by local businesses that they have everyone's support against Tesco.
Sam Murray May 5

There are, with no disrespect intended, some people posting comments on here who do not live in the real world. The people running the local businesses are undoubtedly decent people, but commercially many cannot compete. And therein lies the nub. The idea that businesses that are overpriced should be allowed to survive in nonsense. There is no successful business model in the world based upon the the word, 'should'. The Crown is unfit for purpose. The fantasy that the village needs it is just that. Fantasy. It's a dirty, horrid little place that needs a major overhaul or shutting down. The Costcutter needs to take into consideration the ever expanding size of Boston and re-evaluate it's position. Is it a deli for the well heeled or a mini-mart? As the latter it's days are numbered and the so called supporters of it in it's present state - so vocal on here - are probably a financially secure, elderly minority. The only food business worth it's salt id the butchers and I would urge them to speak to Tesco who are not monsters and negotiate an embargo on high end meat lines. I've seen it done before with them when they've traded in small communities. The Londis is actually the front runner for survival as it offers ridiculous value. Anyway, I am sure I shall be roundly accused of all sorts, but cold hard facts are often difficult to warm to.
Paul Gaffney May 3

I belive tescos will be good and should be allowed as i and other people do not shop in village and would welcome tescos and shop then in village
Vicky Hanratty May 3

A Tesco in Boston Spa will adversely affect established businesses and be of no advantage whatsoever to residents. I will not be shopping there
David Spencer May 2

We are completely against the Tesco development on the grounds expressed by many other people: it will drive other businesses away from the High Street, it will lead to extra traffic at an already congested junction and because there is no need for another such shop in the village.
Becky & Alastair Rose May 1

Perhaps supporters of a Tesco Express coming to Boston Spa would like to take a look at the building opposite Costcutter (the Old Halifax) and get an idea of what the village centre could look like if Businesses are forced out by the corporate giant . Wake up the danger is real.
Richard Menlove May 1

Isn't it HIGH time that someone said 'NO! ENOUGH' to Tesco and indeed to the other 'superstores' that are competing for places in our fast disappearing country villages and towns!In these days of 'Mission Statements', 'Desired Outcomes', Health and Safety, 'Duty of Care', etc.etc., I wonder how Tesco's 'mission' would read? Can I suggest the following? 1.'To establish Tesco Express Stores (or bigger wherever possible!) in every village and town in Britain. 2. To ignore the issues of local traders often well-established after years of loyal local custom. 3. To ignore the future of these communities where young people could be given the opportunity to establish new business ideas in their 'home' community. 4. To create a 'look-alike' high street in these towns and villages without due consideration of any historical interest. Ignore any 'character' - this is about making money after all! 5. To ignore any traffic/pedestrian congestion issues presented by the community. I am sure the list could go on and on - add your own!! We all know this is basically about making money and taking advantage in an already overcrowded, overparked community! More houses - more shops - where does this stop? Are we to become a mere suburb of Leeds, or can we rescue something of the uniqueness of our beautiful village of Boston Spa?
Allison Mann May 1

I am staggered at the shortsightedness of the majority of people on the Tesco debate site. For goodness sakes, Tesco is a good thing! The only businesses that should be concerned are the ones that do not offer anything different? The bakers, the oven door in Wetherby hasn't been affected by Sainsburys, Morrisons, because their produce is excellent. The butchers, Andrews in Wetherby isn't effected, their produce is much better than the supermarkets. The businesses that should be concerned are the ones that don't provide a decent service or product! They know who they are. I welcome Tesco's, it is much needed. I Don't agree with the proposed building in the village!!!!!!!! However, I will lay bets that before local businesses discovered Tesco was coming to town they would have been rubbing their hands together at the prospect of 400 new properties in the village??? Pick your game up and stop whinging..............
Paul Jenner April 30

I don't want to see 'Tesco' in the village, and will not shop there if they come. My main concern is for the livelihoods of the existing shop owners who, in many cases, have served us so well for a long time. I'm also concerned about the way the character of the village will be adversely affected if 'Tesco'move in to 'The Crown'.
Stephen Thompson April 26

I believe the only way to make our voices heard is to let Tesco know that we will vote with our wallets and will not shop at ANY of their stores should they continue with their plan to come to Boston Spa.
Jill Thompson April 25

One person on this discussion hit the nail on the head by stating if Tesco do some how build the thing then vote with your feet and never use it. Keep shopping up the village as if nothing had ever changed,indeed, make a point of waving your costcutter / Londis carrier bag at the place as you walk on by.
Robson April 20

Tesco Supermarket - We oppose this proposal on the grounds that it will increase the traffic on an already overloaded and dangerous High Street traffic situation.
Mullaly, Pand F April 20

I attended the meeting at the Crown and found the Tesco reps to be unhelpful and unfriendly if you didnt support them , I have been browsing a site called Tescopoly and would urge others who dont want Tesco to take a look, it makes interesting reading...........
Mrs P Oates April 19

I'm a recent divorcee with two girls aged 9 and 11. I cannot go out to work as I have to be at home for the girls. I did work full time prior to my seperation in the legal field but family comes first in a difficult marriage break up. I am currently claiming various benefits as a single parent but would love the option of a part time job. I'm told I can work 16-20 hours per week and a Tesco express could give me that chance. I enquired at the drop in session and was informed that there would be various shifts to suit people like myself. I have had no luck obtaining part time work in recent months so would welcome the opportunity of applying for a position at the proposed new Tesco. Or would residents prefer me to sit at home and sponge fully off the state ? And I agree with one poster who was shocked at the behaviour of some village residents at the drop in session who acted like spoilt little brats stamping their feet and squarking at the Tesco representatives. If my children behaved like that I would slap their legs ! Tesco's for me.
Tracy M April 19

At the open meeting yesterday at the Crown I asked 1 simple question If Tesco claim that having a store like this open can actually enhance our village & be good for other retailers why will you not show us an example of where in the past 18 months this has been the case. The 2 gentlemen I spoke with yesterday (who at the time were at best economical with the truth) telling 2 ladies that Tesco will only have 2 small delivery vehicles per day though when pressed admitted there would be upto 4 others arriving each day so not 2 per day Tesco but 6. The other gentleman claimed that Tesco had been in consultation with the Highways department at LCC, when I called this into question again they admitted that this was untrue, in fact they have had no communication with the Highways department. My main concern is for the shops & traders currently on our high street & for the staff that work in them. Please please Mr & Mrs Joe Public support your local shops cos if you don't "Use them you lose them"
Tim Baker April 18

I too attended the TESCO drop in session and while I totally oppose the store in the village I do think that a more focussed campaign which suggests meaningful ways to stop the store would be of advantage. Practical campaigns which engage all those that live in Boston spa from parents dropping off/picking up children to to leaflet/door to door to encourage residents to email Leeds city council and object. Objections must be valid and include traffic problems (already exasberated outside St Mary's) and Church St. Those living in listed buildings know how difficult it is to get Leeds City Council to approve extensions etc so build on this to object to the Crown. A more focussed, targetted campaign is the only way the TESCO application will not be approved.
Phillipa April 18

LOOK, If Tesco does get the Crown then dont use it ! Vote with your feet and continue to use the village shops as you do now. The traffic will always be a problem regardless of whether Tesco open or not, because essentially a very high percentage of the residents of this village are "anti walking" ! Ever tried crossing Westwood way where it joins the high street on a morning ? Then you will have noticed the tailback of traffic that stretches away in all directions because parents are too bone idle to walk their kids to school. And if we are going to try and stop Tesco from wiping out the established village shops shouldnt we also stop new restaurants from opening in the village ? As everytime a new one opens it must therefore be to the detrement of excisting restaurants ? Example - will the fish house restaurant suffer because a take away chip shop is opening below it ? Joberts has gone, too many other new restaurants ? Too many double standards in this debate I'm afraid. Anyway, like I said vote with your feet if Tesco's opens.
Rob April 18

Its not often I agree with my husband on every subject but reading some of the far fetched ideas that some people are putting forward I have to go along with him this time ! It has been suggested the village / parish council buy the crown and turn it into a hotel / restaurant ??? Where and how will the parish council raise in excess of at least a million pounds to purchase and refit the crown into a hotel ? Who are the village residents who will just turn up and run it ? How about looking at the issue from the view of a pensioner like myself ? We have a limited amount of spendable income and have to watch the food bill in particular like many other pensioners. I have to travel to Wetherby for our weekly food shop as to do it in Boston Spa would send us into bankruptcy because of the prices. Example - a kilo of banana's in the village this week £2.20 [ I wont name the shop to avoid embaressing them ], Morrisons = half that price. I have taken the liberty to check Tesco's prices on the vast majority of our regular purchases and they are ALL cheaper than they are in Boston. In an ideal world I would spend in the village, economically it is not realistic as a pensioner. I have nothing against the village shops or their respective owners, I just cannot afford to use them, sorry but there you go. I am therefore for Tesco in the interests of economics.
K Mellish April 17

Went to the Tesco drop in today. Talked to the Tesco robots who seemed to have been trained to say 'CHOICE' at every opportunity. For them to say 'Competition' would probably be a sackable offence. Quite how buying a pint of milk from Tesco instead from Costcutter represents choice I do not know and they could not explain. When I tried to point this out as well as how local shops run by local people adds to the community by taking care to supply local needs, the robots put on a puzzled face and said 'I DO NOT UNDERSTAND' and 'CHOICE'. It was clear that Tesco are not interested in anything we say. They will not react to petitions, marches, posters or any other activity that does not directly affect their aim to put a store in Boston Spa. They are Tesco, we have to love them! We must realise that Tesco are probably looking at more than 100 pubs and the robots we met today will be doing the same thing in another village tomorrow and the next day and so on. To stop the development any action must be aimed at directly affecting their plans, so that they will hopefully give up and concentrate on the other 99+ pubs they are looking at. May I make a few suggestions: 1) I believe that not all of the Crown Hotel is listed. An application to list the whole of it should be put in right away. 2) Tesco plan some modifications to the building which will be essential to their plans. Every listed building application must be objected to constructively. For example, I notice that the plan they had at the drop in, includes a large chiller at the rear of the property. While this will not be heard during the day, the near neighbours will be disturbed at night. I don't think the Andersons will be happy about that As a listed building any alteration must 'improve' the property. The Crown is listed as an inn. Surely knocking down internal walls cannot be considered an improvement. It would destroy the character of the building for ever. There mustbe many grounds for objections. 3)Instead of just being anti-Tesco we ought to be pro the Crown Hotel. I understand that Tesco plan to lease the property, not to buy it. They seem to have no idea of what to do with the upper floors. As others have said, a good Hotel restaurant could do well in Boston Spa but the Crown has been badly run for years and allowed to decay. Has anyone contacted the owners to suggest that the village take it over? I am sure that, to keep Tesco out, there are enough people who would help to tidy up the place. I would also think that there are people in the village who have the skills to run it as a Hotel Restaurant. Have the Parish Council contacted the owners to get their views? These are just a few of my ideas. So, come on Parish Council, don't just hope that a few posters and a petition will do anything. Start to be pro-active and come up with some ideas. Let us know your plans. There are plenty of us in the village who will support you.
Peter Smith April 17

We have lived in the village for 19 years and we strongly oppose the Tesco Express proposal. The heart and soul of the village is already being pulled apart with the Taylor Wimpey development and this would be another step down a slippery slope. Local shops are having a tough enough time as it is without the great monopoliser, Tesco, arriving. We are also well enough catered for with the existing shops and the proximity of Morrisons. Costcutter also localises its offering with the kind of products it stocks and the inclusion of produce from the area.The traffic problems will increase once the housing development is built and this outlet would be another pressure on the same end of the village. It appears we are slowly turning from a village into a town, which goes against all the reasons we moved here.
Sarah & John Carrette April 17

I am strongly against tesco's coming to boston spa are they going to compansate the local residents who live right next door for when tesco's do their deliveries in the early hours? or if any of the shops have to close due to loss of trade are they going to employ those people who will loose their jobs. Where are they goin to use parking for more traffic that will bring like one person said most peopl don't know how to walk into the village even though it would only take minutes. We have enough traffic and with more houses being built but no parking. I have lived in this village for more than 30 years and all my children have been brought up in this village with all this work it will no longer be a village. Collingham are getting a tesco's express so why have one here. I t will be a tesco's express not a tesco's and they will not be any cheaper than any other store. At least costcutters use local produce which would be affected, tesco's is all prepacked and what will happen to customer service at least at costcutters and londis you know who you are talking too.
Paula Kay April 17

From discussions with Tesco personnel, they aim to employ 20 local Boston Spa residents and a Manager. To pay for this amount of staff they would need to take £40,000 per week plus. With a High Street with a turn over of £60 to £70 K it is not hard to envisage that although we would gain a new shop in a very run down pub, we would lose 4 or 5 shops as the Tesco would take trade away from competition in the village. To service the £40,000 plus they (Tesco personnel) tell me that they would have 5 deliveries a day of fresh product coupled with three deliveries per week of groceries.i.e. 38 deliveries on a very busy corner on a very narrow Street. Whenever we have visitors they always comment on the bright bustling Main Street in the Village, which if we allow this Tersco to win this planning permission we would end up with more boarded shops. Do we really want this?
David Robinsin April 17

I am opposed to having a Tesco's on Boston Spa High Street, because the village has a varied selection of individual local shops, many of which would suffer with the introduction of a branch of a major supermarket. I have no specific loyalty to any of these shops, but it is good to have the option and there are plenty of supermarkets with better parking in the area for those who want to bulk shop there. If Tesco comes other shops will close and we will have a poorer high street and the only choice will be Tesco or nothing
Judith Symonds April 17

Why has the parish council taken such a an anti tesco stand? With the ever inreasing population in this village/town, we surely need more competition to the the existing traders.It will also reduce the number of public houses in the village.
Graham Finder April 17

I have just been to the drop in session in the Crown with the Tesco representatives. The CGI image of the proposed building is a lot better than what is there now (i.e. broken windows and dead plants hanging off the side of the pub). The attitude of some of the local residents towards the Tesco people was appalling, and I was embarrassed to be stood there. After speaking with both locals and Tesco staff that were in attendance, I have changed my mind and I would welcome their store in the village. It will certainly be an improvement on the existing building and will create jobs for local people.
David Fisher April 17

Tesco would be more than welcome in my opinion.There is nothing wrong with healthy competition. The current owners of costcutters are in business to make money thats why they open 7 days a week with long hours, not as a favour to everyone. Why do people keep saying over and over on this comments page "that we need a good local pub that offers good beers and food" ? Eerrrmm the Crown does and like ALL the rest of the pubs in the village they are ignored and hardly frequented by anyone ! Pubs need people to go in on a regular basis, not twice a year on bank holidays. Like the old saying "use it or lose it"? Well too late, youv'e lost it.
J Wylie April 16

I do not want to see Tesco in the village, it is out of character.
M Dutton April 16

Whats wrong with having a Tesco ? It will bring jobs over a variety of shift patterns to suit young families or part time students who are struggling financially. Is it right that a handfull of established shops have the right to monopolise trade in the village and keep other traders [ tesco ] out ? As far as an increase in traffic, what rubbish ! A high percentage of residents never walk anywhere, just look at the blocked roads due to the "lazy" school run, they are a far bigger burden than Tesco's will ever be. And the remarks that the Crown should be turned around financially is utter fantasy, nobody noticed how many pubs are closing on a daily basis in the uk ? Nobody would be stupid enough to pump thousands into an ailing business like proping up a pub. What would you prefer ? A boarded up georgian coaching house or a vibrant new business offering employment and competative prices.
Mr F Mellish April 16

We have counted ourselves extremely lucky to have the services of Costcutter run by Neil Hanby. We are strongly opposed to the advent of a Tesco Express into the village. We have no need of a further convenience store and to encourage opposition is a poor way of saying thank you for a service operating long hours seven days a week

I have lived in Boston Spa for nearly 19 years and my hubby nearly 4. I love Costcutter and indeed the whole Hanby family. Costcutter provides everything you could possibly want from a supermarket. I am also thinking about our local butchers, who will be a couple of doors away, both Costcutter, Londis and the butchers will be pushed out of business. There are more than enough shops in this little village and there isn't a single thing you can't buy here at the moment, what would Tesco add? I know new houses are being built, but those houses would benefit from the fantastic produce already supplied and sourced locally and sold at Costcutter, Londis and the butchers and keep the existing businesses thriving. Tesco/Asda/Sainsbury's/Morrisons are everywhere, we don't need one in Boston Spa. I think a Tesco would not only look out of place but it will attract yet more cars and chaos on the roads. We are totally set again them being here.
Linda & Robert Reid April 15

i welcome the prospect of a tesco express it would make the likes of costcutter may be to look at there prices in the case of pensioners because it would not hurt them to have some compition
Christopher Pease 11 April

Having lived in the village for 10 years, I wish to register my dismay with regards the news that Tesco are planning to open a store in the village. The two current convenience stores provide any essential supplies already and there is no need for a third. The heart is being ripped out of the village as it is, with all the empty shops on the high street. As some previous messages have stated, why can't landlords drop the rents so that local people can afford to start a business and get the village looking vibrant again. Surely it is in the landlords interest to get a lesser rent than no rent at all. One of the issues I disagree with though is the percieved noise late at night from the proposed Tesco store. It surely can't be any noisier than the Crown in full swing at midnight on a weekend with the loud music blaring out until midnight. From that point of view, I'm sure another type of business in the premises would be a welcome relief for the residents that live nearby. Maybe it's just me getting old and turning into my dad!
Dave Fisher April 7

I would object to a Tesco convenience store opening. There is no requirement and all it would mean is the closure of other local businesses. I do however feel that the Costcutter does need to up its game in terms of the fresh produce. Morevoer I agree with other comments that there is a requirement for a good local welcoming pub, even more so with accomodation. I am not a regular drinker, however I would only go to the apres-bar in the village due to the unwelcoming stares received from being in the Crown. I would love it if someone turned the Crown into another Durham Ox. HIGH STREET. With no end in site for the TaylorWimpey development, could the council comment on double yellow lines being put in place on one side? The village is a disaster for traffic most of the time, but more so on a saturday morning or whenever there is a church function. I find myself driving to Wetherby to get things rather than supporting my own village because of the chaos and long tailbacks.
Jonathan Lyne April 4

Crown Hotel We don't want Tesco Express we want a nice welcoming pub with good ales and decent pub grub at a sensible price. It's a smashing building with a function room, 'garden' and accommodation in an affluent village, if the right person got hold of it they could transform it into a thriving pub, which is the one thing the village is missing.
Simon April 2

I anticipate that at peak shopping hours the car park would be full resulting in people simply parking on Church Street which in such close proximity to the High Street junction would cause tail backs and accidents.
David Anderson April 1

Unfortuately the Parish Council has no control at all over business rates which are set by central government and collected by Leeds. Similarly none of the shops are owned by the Parish so reduced or rent free periods are totally beyond the control of the Parish Council.

Empty shops :Is the parish council considering offering decreased rates or free trial period to encourage new independent business to occupy the increasing number of empty shops on the high street.
Mrs R Lunn March 31

i think boston spa will be so much better with a tesco express, simply because i feel it will bring more tourists to our village because they could be just passing by on the way home and they could need bits and bats and costcutter or londis could be shut. also i feel that it would make costcutters think about their prices for products. also i feel it will not be much different for traffic wise as there will be a car park for customers to park and also if the people in the cars actualyy used the car park that is provided near the toilets it would not be a problem for traffic.
janet sandiman March 30

I would like to inform you of my objection to the proposed Tesco Express which would be situated on the site of the current Crown Hotel in Boston Spa. I would object on the basis that the current shopping facilities are more than adequate for the village. We already have two convenience stores and a variety of other stores which cater for all other supplies such as the two bakers, a butchers, a florist, and newsagent. I would suggest that it would be used by many people which would cause undue hardship to the current stores in the village. I think it would also cause unnecessary traffic congestion on an already busy road junction. I cannot understand how the current owners of The Crown Hotel cannot make it a good family pub. Having talked to many people there are others like myself who would like to see to see a thriving business at the at the heart of the village offering good pub food with accommodation to offer visitors to the area. Unfortunately, at the moment that area of the village needs some improvement and I am sure there are those who would feel that any development would be an ideal solution
Name and email address supplied March 30

I am against the possibility of an Express Outlet on the site of the Crown Hotel in Boston Spa. We already have Costcutter and Morrisons in Wetherby so another supermarket is unnecessary and would lead to the demise of other shops. We need more accommodation in the Village which The Crown Hotel supplies not more supermarkets
Vivienne Rawnsley March 28

I am strongly against Tesco in the Village as we already have Costcutter which sources local produce, cares about good food. Tesco is not appropriate for Boston Spa, I believe the village of Herne kicked out Tesco so we can do the same. It must not happen!
Judith Scott March 29

Both my wife and I are against the possibility of an Express Outlet on the site of the Crown Hotel. Boston Spa is adequately covered by Costcutter,Londis,Broughton Bakery, and other small enterprises,and the introduction of a much larger enterprise would have a detrimental affect on the village for the reasons given by The Parish Council
Mike and Jean Henzell March 22

I would like to register my opposition to the proposed telco express in Boston spa. We have a great shop in cost cutter, a local butcher, gift shop for cards/gifts, bakers,, a paper shop and a small convenience store in Londis. A tesco would strip the village of it's village identity and I oppose this hugely even with the new housing estate Boston spa is well catered for. Please do not allow this store to go ahead.
Pip Storrar March 17

I wish to associate myself with the many comments against the proposal to establish a Tesco Store in the Crown Hotel building in the High Street.
Tim Mallinson March 17

As discussed in previous posts, nobody appears to have taken into account the additional number of cars and, already increasing congestion that is going to appear when the Taylor Wimpey Estate is built. Where are all the cars going to go if Tescos are successful in getting their plans through? We find it almost impossible on a daily basis to drive down the High Street without some bottle neck at the church, so what on earth will this be like when there are cars turning to reach a supermarket on a very dangerous corner of the High Street? I have been a Bostonian all my life and have seen changes in the High Street, but this would ruin the infrastructure of this village and turn it into a small town, clogging up the roads and making it a danger to pedestrians/cyclists. We lost the battle with Taylor Wimpey, but we must fight to keep Tescos out of the village and try to retain the village that we currently have.
Name and email address supplied March 15

It will wreck this historic village
Alex March 12

May I add my voice to the growing list of objections to the proposed Tesco store on the site of the Crown. Whilst I appreciate that the corner site could do with some tidying up, is the solution yet another convenience store? The problems which will be created by delivery vehicles and customer parking will just add to the already difficult traffic situation at that junction.
Jennifer Douglas March 7

I would welcome a Tesco express in Boston Spa providing any issues regarding traffic and parking were addressed. Also it would be nice if Tesco ceased their legal but distasteful tax avoidance schemes. While Tesco do have some very nice croissants I do prefer the mean Omelettes that The Crown have on their menu!
Andrew G March 6

TESCO PLANS: I would oppose the opening of a Tesco store on the site of the current Crown pub. We already have a number of outlets in the village offering grocery and green grocery merchandise and we do not require 'chain' outlet. No matter how stringently constraints re- aesthetic blending are applied, such a store would be totally out of character for this village. Additionally the majority of access to such a store would be via car. The high street is already overcrowded with parked vehicles - dangerously so- and the projected development on Church Fields will, inevitably add to this problem as parking from this development spills onto the high street. No matter what parking arrangements are made by TESCO the physical geography of the site and its environs will mean significant extra parking along the High Street and along Church Street leading towards Clifford, where residents currently park.This would be unacceptable for home owners along this road. Furthermore use of the store outside the normal 9.00 - 5.00 shop hours would further seriously impact upon residents in the area around the proposed site.
Ivan Chaplin March 5

My husband and I both strongly oppose a Tesco store opening on the site of the Crown Hotel. It would completely ruin the High Street and make it feel more like a Leeds city suburb instead of the large village it is now. We regularly use Costcutter and appreciate the customer service we receive there, and have for many years. It would be a great shame if local independent businesses were put out of business by this chain supermarket. We do not need three Tescos within such a small area (Wetherby, Thorp Arch, Collingham). The High Street is already in danger of becoming overloaded and dangerous with the development of Church Fields and this would futher complicate matters. Boston Spa is a special place with a pleasant High Street and we hope it can remain so.
Helene Stone March 5

I am absolutely appalled that Tesco will be opening a store in Boston Spa. Costcutter and Londis have serviced our community for many years and I'm sure that both will suffer as a consequence. The High Street is already suffering with the closure of Joberts and along with other empty buildings our village is becoming a sad and sorry sight. I shall not shop in Tesco but will continue to support our butcher and local shops for as long as we continue to have them. I just hope that others are willing to do the same.
Elizabeth Hedley March 4

We wish to record our objection to the possibility of a Tesco Store on the site of the Crown Hotel. We do not intend to re-iterate the many objections already made on this site suffice to say that the store will have a detrimental on the existing High Street businesses and will cause major disturbances with goods deliveries and additional parking along Church Street which is already congested to dangerous levels.
Julie & Gary Wrench March 1

I certainly agree that we do not need a Tesco or indeed any other large supermarket chain on the High Street. That junction is already a nightmare with cars parking ilegally outside The Crown on double yellow lines, restricting what is already a very restricted view, especially when there is a bus at the bus stop.
Nancy Griffiths February 25

I wish to register the strongest objection to any proposed Tesco outlet at the Crown Hotel. Firstly, Boston Spa doesn't need a Tesco, we are already well served with Costcutter, Londis and Firths Butchers. A Tesco would surely threaten these businesses and we don't need any more empty shops in Boston Spa, two current businesses are having 'closing down' sales. We lost the Royal Hotel to shops, we don't need to lose another hotel. I believe that the Crown Hotel could be a very profitable venue, it serves the community as the only public house of size in the village that can cater for events, it also can operate as a hotel with bed and breakfast. Boston Spa and surrounding villages could support a top quality 'gastro-pub' and The Crown is ideally situated for this. The location is also not suitable for a Tesco, with the increase in traffic that this would involve. Church Street is difficult enough to drive down at the best of times! If Tesco are opening a store in Collingham why do they also want one in Boston Spa. This suggestion is in no one's interests apart from Tesco's and we should oppose this in the strongest possible terms!
Dave Burgess February 24

A posting has been made to this forum in the name of James Brown of the Spice Box in support of the Tesco application. This posting was not made by James or anyone else at the Spice Box. For the record we are totally opposed to the notion. As a small business based on the High Street a strong and vibrant commercial centre is essential to our livelyhood and feel this would be put at risk by the introduction of Tescos. Again, for the record, we do not buy any ingredients from Morrisons or any other supermarkets and strive to support local businesses whenever possible.
Neil Ewin February 24

Editors Note : The posting referred to above has been removed from this site as it appears to have been made with malicious intent.

The thought of Tescos coming to Boston Spa would ruin the trade for the shops we have here at a difficult time. Tescos are already opening a store in Collingham which is only 3 miles down the road so why on earth do we need one in Boston Spa?
Octavia Gausden February 24

This would-be encroachment of major business interests into a local community is not unique to Boston Spa. Tescos are constantly intruding their near monopoly into villages and small towns. What follows inevitably is the death of truly LOCAL interests. Your previous commentators have identified the likely losses to our community of shops. Please let us ensure that there is no doubt that most of the village would oppose the arrival of Tescos here. PS. The Spice Box must build a reputation for supporting high quality local shops - we are lucky in having a first-rate butcher in Firth's.
V R Gausden February 23

Traders in Boston Spa already have a difficult time. Tesco would only be thinking of coming because it could make a profit.To do this it would use its financial muscle to target the other shops.This would not only affect the two convenience stores, but the Bakers, the Butcher and even the Chemist. The last thing Boston,Spa needs is a row of empty shops. Nor a new accident black spot.
James Canning February 23

Although I am not a resident of Boston Spa, I work in the village and greatly appreciate the village atmosphere and shopping facilities. I strongly oppose the potential Tesco Express - I do not believe the village requires another supermarket, Costcutter appears far more geared to local needs, the proposed site would be a considerable traffic hazard in a village where driving and parking is already problematic. I hope sufficient public opinion can be gathered to oppose the application
Chris Neligan February 22

I would like to add my voice to concerns about the potential of the Crown Hotel being sold to Tesco's and being used for an express supermarket. We have no need of a further mini supermarket in the village, already having a well stocked Costcutter and other local shops. I also believe that the increase in traffic in the village is already an issue and one of the implications of Tesco's coming to Boston Spa is a further increase in delivery vans and lorries. The heart and soul of our village is at further threat from this global business whose only concern is to infiltrate every town and village, not to mention city in their desire for market domination. I encourage all of the parish Councillors to oppose this as vehemently as possible.
Marion Ragaliauskas February 22

I am totally opposed to the opening of a Tesco in the village - it would start the change of status for Boston Spa to that of a town, something which would be very sad to see.
Name and email address supplied February 22

I agree with all the comments above and am horrified at the thought of a Tesco in the village sited on what is already a dangerous junction. Boston Spa i s beginning to lose its heart , shops are already closing and our high street will empty if Tescos move in. They don't care about supporting small local businesses, their aim is to just get as much business as possible. Bad enough to have a huge housing estate in the middle of the village, Tesco would just be the final straw.
J Mannell February 19

Tescos - no thanks - we are so well served by current shops and tescos will detract from the attractiveness of the high street. Talking of that did you see the photos in wetherby news the other day - who ever took them made boston spa look delapidated which it most definitely isnt! Lets try keep Tescos out.
Helen February 18

Crown Hotel A busy shop on the corner of church street and the main road would be even more dangerous than it is at present. Small cars leaving Church Street and turning right are now in danger form traffic that they cant see it will be even worse with the increase in traffic that a tesco store would bring. much better to convert the building into flats
D B Clarke February 17

I too deplore the idea of a Tesco store erupting onto our High Street. We can and must protest, but we know to our cost (Church Fields) that there are times when protests don't succeed. What we MUST do is to promise never to use the store if it does open. I make this promise now. No customers - no TESCO
John Townsend February 15

I am absolutely opposed to Tesco opening in Boston Spa. we already have a Londis and a Costcutter which have faithfully served our community and provide a great service. whatever it takes we must prevent this from happening as it will cause the closure of the Londis the butcher and the costcutter as has happened in so many other areas. what can i do to help prevent this from happening
jill thompson February 15

I do hope that Tesco's ambitions in Boston Spa can be thwarted. My concerns are that we really don't want to lose accommodation in the village, we have no need for another 'supermarket', the effect of traffic on that junction, but most importantly I fear that that turning the Crown Hotel into a Tesco emporium conflicts with the Georgian heritage of the High Street
Sandy Goodall February 14

A further convenience store is likely to lead to yet more empty properties on the High Street, with butcher, bakers, Londis and the deli all put under pressure. The site is entirely unsuitable for delivery+parking, and the junction is already a dangerous one to negotiate with petrol station traffic etc. The danger will increase dramatically once Church Fields is occupied. The appeal to Tesco is of course that Church Fields adds a very attractive new audience to sell too. But I see no applications to set up new surgeries, dentists or other services to accommodate the influx of 650+ new people to the village. A Tesco is not needed; plenty of other things are!
David Ranby February 13

I list below my objections to the possible new resco in the listed building now the crown hotel

1 it would cause the demise of the Cost Cutter which has been built up over many years and provides an adequate amenity and probably a more comprehensive selection than a Tesco.
2 The Crown should stay as a hotel as there is an acute shortage of accommodation in Boston Spa.
3 A tesco would not be in keeping with atmosphere of the village or it's residents .
4 I understand that the tesco policy initially is to have low prices to see off the competition once their objective is achieved their prices would be higher than our Cost Cutter
Ivan Mortimer February 13

I would not welcome Tescos opening a store in The Crown. Boston Spa is a unique village with enough shope to support it. With large supermarkets in Wetherby and Tadcaster there is in my view not the need to open a supermarket
Liz Newman February 12

We aready have two small supermarkets and a convienience store in Wickham avenue. Another Tesco is not wanted or required in the village as it will destroy the smaller retailers who provide us with good service. towns and villages with small independent reailers are surviving the recession better, and have fewer closed shops, than areas where the high streets consist of mainly big retailers
Gloria Higgins February 12

I agree with the comments made already, we don't need a supermarket chain in Boston Spa. It will threaten the fabric of our lovely village so many ways. Not only will it potentially put the existing stores out of business, but the trade will make the traffic on the junction of High Street and Church Street unbearable. It would not be healthy competition but a massive corporation bullying its way into our lives without cause or necessity
Al & Becky Rose February 11

The village of Boston Spa does not need another convenience store. It is more than adequately served by the present facilities. One suspects it may be a 'foothold' for Tesco, possibly looking to expand in the future
Charles & Barbara Marsh 10 February

The use of The Crown by Tesco will cause mayhem on Church Street as the vehicular entrance is only yards from the high street at a point where the road width is approx 16ft. Delivery lorries reversing in will hold up traffic turning in and exiting Church Street and have no alternative but to mount the pavement causing damage very quickly which will take time and cost to repair. At such a busy junction it will also endanger pedestrians. Unlike the brewery who have 1 delivery per week Tesco will have several a day as well as shoppers parking
David Anderson 10 February

We do not need a Tesco's and even more we do not need any more traffic congestion particularly just on an already very awkward corner
Nicola Lister 9th February

Generally, I am in favour of competition but I see a Tesco outlet on the Crown site as being detrimental to the existing services provided in the village. Jobs created would probably be matched by jobs lost at other retail units. The site is on a very busy and rather dangerous corner and the regular visit of delivery vehicles would cause further dangers.The loss of the hotel/pub would be detrimental to the village being a meeting point for locals and the loss of accomodation would also be a negative factor. The Tesco image would not enhance the village and increased traffic flows from customers would add yet another blow to the congestion we already experience. I trust that there would be no easement of any 'listed status' to the building for Tesco or any other applicant.
David Coates 9th February

I am a resident of Clifford and make use of the excellent convenience store we already have in Boston Spa. In my view we do not need another one. I believe turning the Crown Hotel into a Tesco Express would detract from the character of the High Street and probably wouldn't help traffic issues either
Souheila Fox 9th February

I am totally against a Tesco Express anywhere in Boston Spa. The village is already well served with grocery, butchers and newsagents. More of these services, particularly from a multinational, are not only unnecessary but would put unreasonable pressure on the viability of our local suppliers and in the long term damage the services we currently rely on.
Johm Hibbitt 9th February

We do not need another convenience shop in Boston Spa and we certainly do not need a Tesco or any other big chain. It will not add anything to the village. We have a very good costcutter and a Londis, in which we can get most foods and essentials. Wetherby is only 5-10 minutes away for Morrisons and all the other great shops. A Tesco will not add to the "village" feel of Boston Spa either and therefore its appeal to shop in.
Penny Stables 9th February

Agree with first comments re proposed number of local supermarkets but we must not lose sight of the fact this would be a convenience store rather than a supermarket per se, and therefore a direct competitor in the village, of Londis and Costcutter plus all the smaller delis, grocery and household style stores. With the Church Fields Development, Post Office up for sale, and two of the clothing stores in the village closing down the village High Street could very easily fall into the homogenised range of little box dwellings and shops we see in dull town high streets all over the country. This village has a heart and needs to retain it. It would be helpful to know more about this proposal in order to galvanise opinion - is it an actual fact?
Rachel Bentley 9th February

I understand that Tesco are showing interest in the Crown. Have the Parish Council any thoughts on how we can fight this monster? I know that it is a loosing battle as they will sweeten Leeds City Council with some road adjustment or something but I feel that we should at least try. I saw someone surveying outside there yesterday, may not be anything to do with it but…….

I also see that Taylor Wimpey are starting to move the goal posts, I can not seem to find what they are playing at I presume that the Council is on top of it.

Back to the Tesco scenario 3 of their supermarkets within a 2 mile radius plus Morrisons, Sainsburys, Proposed Sainsburys and Asda how many more can the district take?
Gordon Wulliamson 9th February

BUSES Back to Engage Back to top of page

To my dismay, I heard yesterday that the much loved 923 Service which provides a life line east of Bridge Road, Boston Spa (bus to Tadcaster) is to cease to operate as we know it from the end of October. The service uses low floor buses, and the people who drive the service are as courteous and helpful as you could possibly ask for. Although only a basic 90 minute frequency, with no Evening or Sunday Services it is none the less a vital link.

I learned that a new operator will operate a new service on a THREE HOURLY frequency. This can hardly be described as a service. I can find nothing in print or on line about these devastating changes, which it seems are cut and dried and non-negotiable. East of Bridge Road there is no service to Leeds or Harrogate and the few buses which do operate have no connection possibilities with the excellent 770 service through the west end of the Village.

Please can someone give me an authoritative statement on what is happening, and offer a lifeline to the many stranded residents in the east end of the Village. This change will cause untold hardship and isolation, and inevitably place further strain on Welfare services in order to support the many people in the area with mobility and health problems and no independent means of transport.
John Townend 3 October 2011

DOGS n'THINGS Back to Engage Back to top of page

Once again this very weekend whilst walking by the bridge on the river I witnessed another appalling example of dog ownership. A hooray Henry type with double toddler buggy and labrador were ambling along the riverside footpath towards me, the owner shouted out for his missing dog several times. I helpfully informed him that his dog was emptying its bowels at the side of the path behind a bush. He thanked me, shouted for his dog which bounded off with him and off he went without so much as a thought for clearing up HIS dogs mess. Wonderfull resident of the village.......Mr F Mellish 11 Sept

As a caring resident of Boston Spa I take it very much to heart when other locals seem not to care one iota about our wonderfull village in respect of dog mess. It seems to me that due to the large amount of dog faeces spread along the village pavements that some people must take a perverse delight in not clearing up after their dogs. Take a walk down Leys lane and see for yourself the grass verges blathered in piles of mess, or even collected faeces in polythene bags which are hung up in the hedgerows because the dog owner is too bone idle to dispose of it properly. F Mellish 27 August

HIGH STREET Back to Engage Back to top of page

This problem has worsened over the last two years as recent house owners on the south side of HIgh St park outside their houses rather than on the opposite side as used to be the case. The only way this problem can be solved is by restricting parking by legal means, ie yellow lines and Traffic Control Orders, but this is a long and relatively costly process which can only be carried out by Leeds City Council. In this case the whole system may be bypassed as the planning consent for Church Fields includes a requirement for such Orders and for double yellow lines all along the north side of High Street from Deepdale to the Church. Whilst this may solve the problem for motorists it will inevitably mean an increase in traffic speeds through this section of the village.
Boston Spa Parish Council August 24

Parked vehicles on both sides of the High Street from St Mary's Church to Westwood Way are frequently causing obstruction to the free flow of traffic. How do you propose to stop this from happening?
Jim Postell August 21

The Parish Council asked the developers for a comment on this topic and they replied
We are hoping to start very soon. I shall ask my foreman to look at the fencing for you.
Melhome Developments August 1

Green Boards Listers
These boards are proving to be a traffic hazard and safety hazard to pedestrians as they limit the sight line of traffic turning into and out of the surgery or methodist church. If they could be lowered or moved back on the turning in side then that would improve matters. Also when is the work on the site actually going to commence?
Jill Thompson July 27

STREET LIGHTING Back to Engage Back to top of page

The debate about the style of lighting is now over following the completion of the consultation which resulted in standard lighting being chosen by the majority of those who responded. The Parish Council will now liaise with Leeds and their lighting contractor to achieve the best possible result for the village within the constraints imposed by the requirement to meet certain British Standards

So, the great street lighting debate is over, and the big winner is.......apathy! I am surprised that there was such a low turnout, but at least the majority in favour of standard lighting will mean that there is no wingeing later on about tax rises approved by a minority of villagers on some vanity scheme. The council has done the right thing now by getting Leeds city council to go ahead, so I look forward to a brighter High Street this winter. I only hope that the low response to this method of consultation does not put the parish council off from repeating this kind of excersise in future on subjects of potential controversy. Thanks for at least trying to find out what the village wants!
Robert Hutchinson June 27

John Oates must strangely have preferred the dark unfriendly, enclosed and unwelcoming spaces in front of the library and toilets rather than the light, airy, open, well used and popular space that we now have at the Millennium Gardens.
P Brown 18 June

Hurray. Common sense prevails. Let's just get the streets LIT now and stop arguing. Two more useful things for the Village to consider : a) A BUS STOP at the SURGERY - very few buses actually pass it, but it would very helpful for people with mobility problems if they stopped at the Surgery for obvious reasons. b) Better and sensitive lighting for the WAR MEMORIAL. I walked past it last night, and there's just an abandoned street light by the Village Hall. With wars in the news ever day now, this is surely a more appropriate use of Public Funds.
John Townend 17 June

Parish Council Decisions. When the council suggest in their leaflet that there is a 'forward looking' point of view, I wonder if that is the same forward lookers who organised that (word deleted) of a millenium square. Personally, I believe that a plaque should be erected there to identify those councillors who arranged or allowed it to happen, and that they should henceforth be banned from being involved in any decision which even remotely touches upon the public interest ever again. Of course the lighting should be heritage, this is a traditional English village, and I would prefer it to remain so.
John Oates June15

I am sure the architects and trendies in the 60/70’s thought those building that we now call monstrosities were modern and the way forward . Don’t let us fall into the same trap.
Henry Tudor June 10

Perhaps I have misunderstood the purpose of street lighting all these years... to enable pedestrians and motorists to traverse forth in relative safety. What is this great debate about - utility or decoration? It's a no brainer surely! Yes there are some very beautiful properties along the High Street, but how many 'visitors' actually come to see them? (and I've yet to meet anyone that visited a place just to marvel at the street lights). The Village Hall is 20th century as is the Library. Millenium gardens too was supposed to represent our move forward not backwards. If new housing goes ahead, as is proposed, on Church Fields then this again would be a mis-match. Let's just get on with the job of providing a well-lit area without additional (and possibly ongoing) costs to anyone in the community. Boston Spa can stand on it's own merit without the addition of imitation Georgian lamps - but of course anyone who feels this would enhance their property/view can always buy one for their front garden... can't wait!
Kathy Henderson June 10

To me, the problem is that neither street light option is fully satisfactory for our predominantly 18th century high street which has continued to develop with subsequent architectural styles: the heritage lights are a reproduction of an old style, whereas the standard lighting offered by Leeds CC is modern and neutral. However, Boston Spa already has a genuine architectural heritage of sufficient stature that our streetscape doesn’t need embellishing with olde-worlde accessories in the form of self-conscious imitation gas lamps. The village centre already has a good contemporary design in Millennium Garden and the modern lamps would continue this development rather than trying to look like something out of a costume drama. William Morris said ‘Have nothing in your house unless you know it to be useful or believe it to be beautiful.’ Of the two alternatives I would regard the modern lamps as being useful and functional in providing the most efficient light – the fewer columns needed would blend into the street-scene. Whereas the old-style lamps appear as an irrelevant pastiche and would be more obtrusive in their styling and numbers in this context. So if there is extra money to be spent, surely it could be better used to benefit our community in wider ways involving people and activities, rather than tarting-up our already handsome village high street.
Emily Gaussem June 10

I am so hoping for the PC to vote for HERITAGE lighting. From my Living Room window,towards Riverdale Gardens, I have the hideous view of a Standard light, approximately 2 metres from the High Street. To install these lights would only serve to make this classical linear georgian street look like an airport runway. We should be preserving the'special look' of our village, where many people, not just from Boston Spa, chose to shop, because of its unique georgian character.
C Meads June 10

STREET LIGHTING. RE THE LEAFLET THAT WAS DISTRIBUTED TO THE RESIDENTS OF B/S.MY MOTHER LIVES AT FLAT 4 THORNHILL PINE TREE AVENUE AND UNFORTUNATLY SHE HAS NOT RECEIVED A FORM.SHE HAS ASKED ME TO CONTACT THE COUNCIL AND PASS ON HER VOTE OF YES TO THE NEW HERITAGE LIGHTS. MRS E SILKSTONE
Mike Silkstone June 10

NO NO NO to standard column lights. Please go to the display in the High Street almost directly opposite the rug shop and see the difference that Heritage lights would make. I respectfully say again NO No No to standard lighting. lets make the village look like you are entering a village not a continuation of the motorway!
Jill Player-Bishop June 10

I believe strongly that we should take the opportunity to choose the Heritage style lighting. The “Gladstone” lights will look fantastic running the whole length of the village and connecting up to the bridge with Thorp Arch whom I hear have already decided to opt for this style of lighting. The benefits seem to me to be that of increased pride in the village. Along with works like the riverside projects and the wonderful hanging baskets displayed through out the high street. I feel that in a village full of beautiful listed buildings the heritage style lighting will be more appropriate. I believe how we shape our village gives us an enormous feel good factor and also it helps attract shoppers and keep the local shops busy and we all value the convenience of them. May I add that Keith Jackson is doing brilliant work on showing the benefits of the Heritage lighting.
Johnnie Clark 9 June

Boston Spa is a village within a conservation area. It has a full length high street (not just up to the village hall) where the appearance and character is preserved and kept traditional by the rules of Grade II lisiting which diligent home owners respect and ay considerable expense, adhear to. This keep the village special and a place where people want to live, visit and shop. I would argue very strongly that the use of herritage style lighting is needed for the sfull stretch of the high street. Industrial style lighting is inappropriate and is in total contrast to the principles of listing properties and assigning conservation and herritage status to an area. Let's keep the herritage look and feel of the village with our street furniture and lighting and make the investment to preserve what we and others love about Boston Spa.
Alison Sherratt June 8

I am truly amazed at the passion and dedication of Keith Jackson to preserve the heritage for the residents and many visitors. Its a great shame that everything revolves around money and nobody gives a damn about maintaining the history of our small and wonderful villages. I personally own a cottage in Rawdon, the council have put a monstrous motorway lamp post directly outside my front door. Because I do not live at the property I had no idea of their intentions. Keep up the good work Mr Jackson, if only there were more people in the world like yourself a lot more villages would maintain there heritage and beauty.
Kim Emsley June 7

STREET LIGHT IN OLD STYLE BLACK WOULD ENHANCE THE VILLAGE NO NO NO TO THE PRESENT LOOKING ONES
Joberts June 6

The Parish Council has asked me to bring our display of Heritage/Standard lighting to the Village Hall on Saturday 11th June. This will be the last day of the consultation. It was first shown outside Costcutter on Saturday 4th June where there was much interest. We are delighted to accept this opportunity and confirm that it will be available for all to see. However, in the meantime the display will be on show in the front garden of 219 High Street which is just east of the surgery. Everybody is welcome to come into the garden to view it.
Keith Jackson June 5

The answer to Mike Pelter's question is that the only editing that will be carried out will be the removal of any libellous or defamatory statements or, where appropriate, the correction of any quoted facts but this will only be done by prior agreement with the contributor concerned. That is why we ask for contact details with the submission

May I take this opportunity to thank Keith Jackson for his forthright efforts in both raising the street lighting issue in the first place and sustaining the objections to a lighting style out of keeping with our Georgian high street (as supported by the PC during the Church field hearing) and his factual exhibition adjacent to Cost cutters on Saturday 4th June 20011. It is the first time that we have been able to see direct technical and aesthetic comparisons between the garish fit all street lighting proposed by Leeds City Council and the Heritage alternative. Why is it that Leeds City Council can find funding to install and maintain Heritage lighting along Street Lane in Leeds LS8 and not support the same in Boston Spa? On another note, does editing take place of any comments raised either prior or post publication on the engage web site?
Mike Pelter 5th June 2011

Jenny Douglas has enquired about baffles to stop light shining into residents properties. Baffles can be fitted to either the Heritage lights or the standard. By pre planning it is possible to fit baffles inside the Gladstone fitting. The baffles for the standard light are fitted outside and can be seen at the entrance to River View (but this column is shorter and more slender than the standard light proposed for High Street). Another example can be seen opposite the Old Star public house in Clifford. Baffles on Gladstone lights can be seen on the bridge at Aberford but I believe that these are retro fit modifications. Nevertheless tney are not as obtrusive as those on the standard lamp post.
Keith Jackson June 2

The answer to Jenny Douglas in short is yes. All lights can have some form of baffle fitted. In most cases these are retro fitted because it is not known if the light is going to be a problem for anyone until after it has been installed.

With the standard light internal adjustment of the light source itself by changing its angle can often solve the problem. If this does not work then an external back baffle can be fitted and quite a few lights in Boston Spa have these. Boston Spa is also unusual in having probably the only light fitted with baffles to the front as well as the back (at River View) and this is more evident. It does however show the extent to which Leeds/SSEC will go to try and solve the problems for adjacent houses and their concerned owners.

The Gladstone light can also be fitted with a baffle which, by virtue of the size and shape of the luminaire, is larger and more evident. This can be seen in the photograph.

Will the non-standard lights be able to be fitted with baffles for the residents who will be inconvenienced by the light shining into their houses? If they can be fitted are there any photos of what they will look like?
Jenny Douglas June 2

First impressions are often lasting impressions and visitors to our village admire and enjoy the Georgian stone fronted properties as do we, the residents of Boston Spa. Lamp posts often go unnoticed, that is unless they jar on the eye by being visually inappropriate. I believe that modern designs of lighting fall into this category. Would not heritage lighting would be far less obtrusive and more in character with the architecture of the village? Roughly speaking, for the cost of one meal out per household this year, the centre of the village could enjoy this enhancement. I am sure that the former village society would have approved the installation of heritage lamps and any remaining balance of their funds which, I think, were passed to the Parish Council, could most appropriately be used to offset the total cost to the ratepayers.
Arthur Faulkner June 1

Residents will be aware that speeding along the high street is a real problem. Vehicles have frequently been observed exceeding speeds of 50/60mph through Boston Spa at night. It seems to me that 'motorway style' lighting as a continuation of the lighting from the A1 roundabout will only encourage this for those who treat the High Street as a 'rat run' from the A64 to the A1. On the other hand, heritage style lighting would clearly signify a historic residential area which should influence/reduce this sort of dangerous driving.
D Winter June 1

David Thompson has said in his latest note from the Parish Council that there is 'absolutely no evidence at all that the style of lighting has any impact whatsoever on the vibrancy of any particular area' and ' What is important is the level or quality of the light'. If this is the case why did the Parish Council fight to get the 10 m columns replaced with smaller and fewer lights? Come on David, you can't have it both ways!
Keith Jackson May 31

David Thomson in his comments from the Parish Council has incorrectly said that there are only two or three lights in Market Square Wetherby. In fact there are 8 columns at 7m height to the lamp and various other wall mounted lights of similar design and height. Further there are two more in the recently re-developed Horsefair. They are gas light style and look absolutely appropriate in their setting. Indeed they would be especially attractive in the commercal centre of Boston Spa since they would echo the earlier designs in this area of Boston Spa which are well recorded in the sepia archive pictures of our village. This area is indeed mostly Victorian in its development and the gas lamp style would be most acceptable. The spacings used in Wetherby (A category Road) are no more demanding than our proposed standard lighting. David Thomson has incorrectly implied that Wetherby has no further heritage lamps but he omits to say that they have agreed to install them in High Street. The 'wings' of Boston Spa High Street are predominently Georgian (witness how there are only 16 Listed Buildings in the central section whereas there are over 40 between the Village Hall and the Admiral Hawke). It might be considered appropriate that in the 'wings' sections of High Street that the Gladstone lamp with its globe lamp would be in keeping with the Georgian style.The guidance from English Heritage would seem to applaud such a decision.
Keith Jackson May 31

I would just like to say that I find this whole debate quite disheartening. I realise that we all have different views about what looks good but can any of you really tell me that you like the way the standard lighting looks on the approach to Tadcaster from Boston Spa or anywhere else that it has been placed. I am sorry but to me it looks like 'war of the worlds' these frightful monstrosities are visual polltants! They not wanted or called for and will only encourage people to further speed along the High Streeet as it will look like a motorway! The cost of placing some more pleasing lights is minimal and the argument of whether they are 'in keeping' with the area is ridiculous as these modern standard poles most certainly are NOT in keeping with anything ! lets make Boston Spa a place that is different, whilst engaging in intellectual snobbery about the era of lighting and its suitability is all very well and good it seems ridiculous when the alternative option is the standard frightful poles. Yours in frustration
Jilly Thompson May 31

It is clear that the Parish Council has spent considerable time negotiating with Leeds City Council with the aim of ensuring that the impact of new lighting on the High Street is appropriate and as unobtrusive as possible. It is a shame and a considerable surprise that those discussions do not appear to have included any serious consideration of the provision of Heritage style lighting until very recently. The current Consultation has all the hallmarks of a knee-jerk response to a recent lobby from residents who feel that the appearance of Boston Spa is an important feature of the quality of life here and a link to the village`s future prosperity. The lead role played by the Council in the Church Fields debate was commendable. As I recall, the Heritage and appearance of the village was a key feature of the Council`s position on that campaign. It is disappointing that the Council has not taken a similar lead on the question of lighting. Cost is clearly a big issue; but the current Consultation seems designed to deter any support for the idea of Heritage lighting. One idea, frequently mentioned, is that of asking the developers of Church Fields to fund the cost as a gesture of goodwill to the village. The vilage will have one shot at this - let`s take the time to consider the issues fairly and in some depth.
Robert Allen. 26th May 2011

Most of our villages, towns & cities are a mixture of different styles & eras but what is important is that the lighting chosen is sympathetic to the environment. The current lighting on the High St jars. Some people consider the heritage lighting on offer faux or fake but they are, at least,more symathetic to the environment than the standard style on offer. We must remember that both The Georgians & The Victorians were past masters of faux & some of our most admired historical buildings are in the purest sense fake. Take an Edward Lutyens house for example. The Gladstone light , whilst not perfect, offers the best option to the alternative offered to us. As far as cost is concerned, it is relatively small considering we will be conserving & preserving our environment for ourselves & future generations. If we go down the lowest cost route it ultimately leads to boarded up shops & graffiti. I am sure we can all point to once proud & prosperous towns that have gone down this "well meaning" disasterous route. If we had just considered cost the village would not have undertaken the excellent work on the river walk or the millenium development outside the library. In addition if we are to recover from this economic mess we have to encourage spending by the private sector & this additional cost is to be financed by us. Boston Spa will thrive if we encourage visitors to the town, it will slowly decline if we do not. Most towns & villages that value their heritage have moved to heritage style lighting & so should Boston Spa. If we fail to go down the heritage route it could well send the wrong signal to planners & developers who will be quick to point to this decision to their own advantage. This is particularly important as it follows so soon after the adverse decision on Church Fields.
Mike Sneddon 26 May 2011

It is encouraging to see the Parish Council has been spending a lot of energy debating and negotiating with Leeds City Council, on behalf of the residents, to reduce the impact of the new High Street lighting system to a country village's proportions as regards the number and height of the new lampposts.

Now that we have the "Church to Village Hall" and "Deepdale to Wharfeside" schemes presented to us I can repeat my previous thoughts for which an emphatic NO to any alternative to the standard and unpainted standard lights and columns still stand.

I am glad to see the Parish Council regards the "gas lamp" style is inappropriate due to the number that would be needed and the strange lack of proportion due to the 7 m tall column. I think that style does look rather comical due the so called "ladder cross-bar" being well over 6 m above the ground. If the red dots on the small street plan in the Village Hall represent the number of "gas lamp" style, or indeed the Gladstone style, then it looks as though there would be a forest of "old style" lampposts on both sides of the road, along much of the High Street, which would look just awful, and very distracting, making it look like a theme park or museum street.

The comparison between the standard and "gas lamp" style can be seen in Beeches End where half the street has had this odd looking style installed. The centre of Aberford is a good example for comparing the Gladstone style and the standard lampposts in place. I do not think this style adds any architectural "georgian look" benefit to the scene there.

I believe, due to the hotchpotch of age, style and quality of properties along the High Street, ranging from the eighteenth to twenty-first centuries the merits of the standard lighting system outweigh any doubtfully possible benefit of the "old fashioned" styles that could be chosen. The "old fashioned" styles would look very quirky outside the twentieth and twenty-first century properties along much of the High Street. If the recent letter in the Wetherby News is correct it would seem English Heritage would back the plan to have a simple modern design style for the conservation area as a whole which is fit for the twenty-first century as there are no established older local styles or motifs along the High Street. Bramham and Clifford, both of which are much older villages than Boston Spa, have all gone for the slim-line twenty-first century style albeit painted back.

I ask the Boston Spa Parish Council to follow their decision and go forward with the modern twenty-first century style but please do not paint these lampposts. (If you must then Green)
Alan Rayner 26 May 2011

I strongly support the proposal for heritage style lighting on Boston Spa High Street. Currently the High Street is cluttered and not enhancing the appearance of the village at all, but we now have an opportunity to make a meaningful improvement that will last for the next 25 years. The Georgians did indeed have street lighting even if not in Boston Spa; just google "georgian street lights Edinburgh" for examples. Unfortunately the standard light on offer is very industrial in appearance and not suitable for a street consisting largely of period buildings. As was mentioned at the AGM the overall impression of a street scene is as a result of how the different elements combine to produce a pleasant effect, but I believe that the standard light will jar with the surrounding buildings. Regarding cost, this is an important investment for the future. The parish council has already shown itself willing to spend considerable amounts of money(£60,000 so far according to parish records)on other important areas i.e. the riverside. Many more people use the High Street and therefore surely we should similarly invest in this area. The worst case according to the council leaflet is that band G households would need to pay an extra £10 per year for 10 years. I suspect if you live in a band G house this sum will not make a significant dent in your finances, whilst the increase for a band B property works out at less than 10 pence per week. I hope that those who agree with this view will respond to the Parish Councils leaflet and let their opinions be considered.
Fiona Gamlin May 25 2011

Essentially this debate is about whether heritage lighting confers any advantage over standard lighting. There is no evidence that Boston Spa had any lighting in the Georgian period as remains the situation in Thorner but there is plenty of evidence of lighting in the Victorian period on the Leodis website.The closest approximation to those present then would be the lights chosen by Wetherby. The question then is what sort of lighting will enhance the street scene-other Parish Councils have taken the view that heritage lighting will enhance and acted appropriately. In contrast Collingham for instance has gone for standard lighting on the high street but it is difficult to suggest that these have enhanced Collingham in any way. As to the costs of heritage lighting to put things into perspective the cost of a family of 4 to see the Pirates of the Caribbean 4 is at least £25 (without food and drink)-this greater than the proposed one off increase in Parish Precept for Band D! I personally believe that heritage lighting is both desirable and affordable and hope others agree.
michael vucevic 25th May 2011

I disagree with my wife – ( see below Ed). the heritage lighting will reinforce the view that this village has a pride in how it looks. I also believe a well-cared for and well-presented village helps maintain house values. Our adjoining neighbour Thorp Arch will have heritage lights leading down to the bridge but on our side the modern lighting will look as though we lack pride and take whatever is the cheapest option. I urge you to vote Heritage.
David Watts 25 May 2011

Well-said, Victoria Gausden & Jenny Douglas! I concur completely. The standard lights are inobtrusive and will not detract from the character of Boston Spa and will certainly not do anything, one way or another, for property values. This is a time to husband resources rather than incurring unnecessary expenses.
Anne Watts 25th May 2011

I do not think that the council should opt for the Heritage Option for the new street lights. I regret to say that the view of Boston Spa being a quaint little village is a bit outdated and even the Parish Council minutes mention that the whole character will change with the Church Fields Development. I admit that I was unhappy about the new lights on Church Street, but once we got agreement on a lower height, they have not proved to be the eye-sore that was feared and other than the much improved light quality they are hardly noticed. I can see no advantage in going to the enormous expense of installing non-standard lights. The amount of money required could certainly be much better spent elsewhere. I agree with Victoria that the burden of an extra precept will fall heaviest on the people who can least afford it.
Jenny Douglas 23 May 2011

My own view is that you should not choose heritage lighting for the following reasons:

As this is a primarily a Georgian village, no one style of lighting is any more authentic than another. The "heritage" lights I have seen are quite crude pastiches of Victorian and Edwardian lamp standards: they are in no way Georgian and they are not the natural automatic style for the village. They are not particularly well proportioned even on the shorter posts. I understand that thanks to lobbying on the part of the parish council, we are fortunately going to have 7m rather than 10m lampposts. These poles are still much higher than the existing ones (I'm not sure everyone appreciates this) and, unless you chooses massive lanterns, the proportions will be extremely strange.

Good proportions and fine detailing are at the heart of Georgian architecture and I think that heritage lampposts will deliver neither.

The heritage lanterns will merely draw attention to the poles, not enhance the street scene. Surely what we should be trying to do is make the lighting vanish as much as possible during the day, not draw attention to it. The way to do that is to paint the posts in a receding colour and keep them as simple as possible. If we do that, fairly soon people will stop noticing them: after all, no-one seems to have minded the current posts that much until the spectre of new lighting was raised.

Finally, I do have concerns about the cost. If you are going to have the heritage posts you will have to have them along most of the High Street and I understand that there will have to be extra posts if you use heritage lighting (thereby compounding the problem). That is a very very expensive project. I do not believe that, in these times of austerity, the cost can be justified, particularly as the cost if raised through the precept will, inevitably fall on those families least able to afford it.
Victoria Gausden 22 May 2011

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I have tried contacting the police regarding the total lack of respect for the new 20mph zone on Clifford Moor Road and had nno response. I am fed up with constantly being flashed and overtaken by drivers when I am trying to adhere to it myself. Transdev buses are some of the worst cuplrits. I also raised the issue that the fact that just after the school, when there are still many children walking along the footpath from Clifford, it changes to 40mph then back to 30mph over the brow of the hill.
Nancy Griffiths February 25

I note that 20mph signs have been painted on the road outside Boston Spa school and currently are as much use as the proverbial chocolate tea pot. Will there be more visible signs to deter drivers, as drivers have always ignored the 30mph signs!!. Congratulations on the Winnow Lane Gate.
Graham Towns 5 November

Can we do something to slow down traffic coming into Boston Spa from the A1/Wetherby end? The Deepdale site has a new Children's Centre plus extensive play area, so parents and children need to cross the road here. How many parents take their children by car, adding to traffic, because crossing the road is so hazardous? Also many people cross here to walk dogs (or themselves) along Jackdaw Crag. Options would be a pedestrian crossing, speed bumps or as a minimum a flashing "slow down to 30" sign as in Collingham.
Elaine Shirtliff 23 June

I too have concerns about the speed of cars in Boston Spa, I can not recall a time that I have been able to cross the road without breaking into a run. There will be an accident one day with a loss of life, be this from a car trying to get out on to the high street from one of our many avenues ( my childrens car was hit by a motorist whilst they were trying to turn onto the high street ) or by some poor soul who can not sprint across the road, think Deepdale park, would you want to try and cross the road with a pushchair and two toddlers?. The other problem we have is inconsiderate parking, which obscures the view for both pedestrians and motorists. We do need to act upon this issue and soon.
Mrs P M Oates 11 June

The number of vehicles speeding through the village is increasing and nothing appears to being done about it . The police should put speed traps in place and fine anyone doing over 30 mph and not let them off with a caution
Robert Peel 13 May 2011

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At the recent Annual Parish Meeting some residents suggested that the Parish Council should significantly increase the level of precept as not enough was being spent on the village and that Boston Spa had one of the lowest precept levels in Leeds. Although this is not factually correct - we are 14th of 33 on one measure and 23rd of 33 on another. Nevertheless do YOU think the precept should be raised and if so what should the extra money be spent on ??

You have asked whether the precept should be increased and if so what should any extra money be spent on. To answer this we need to ask ‘How much do we already pay through our local PC precept’ and ‘How has it been spent?’ Firstly, an average resident (Band D) pays a Council Tax of £1325.16 to Leeds Council, which includes a local Parish Precept of £18.76. This precept generates an amount of £35,000 per annum for the Parish. Turning now to the question ‘How has it been spent?’ I have looked at the published accounts for the past 4 years and find the following revealing information (I have rounded and simplified the figures for the benefit of readers) Average annual income (precept £35k, interest, allotments, adverts, etc) £37k Average annual expenditure by category; Total £37k Made up of the following: - Admin (Clerk salary, insurance, audit, etc) £10k (27%) - Village Hall £9k (24%) - Playing Fields (Stables Lane, after income) £3k (8%) - Open spaces /riverside £15 (41%) Also the accounts show that we have reserves of £48k and this has not changed much over the period. It is interesting to note how much has been spent on fixed overheads and how much spent on the riverside. Very little has been spent on the High Street. The High Street is the most dominant and impressive part of our community yet it seems to have been neglected. My conclusion is that the PC has been very careful and prudent with the modest sum which we pay them through our precept (annually £18.76 pa per home) but they should take a fresh look at the priorities. I submit that we should reallocate some of our present income towards making the High Street a more attractive place (removal of clutter and signage, improved pavement surfaces for toddlers and elderly, coherent colours on street furniture, improvements to Millennium Square, etc). A redirection of existing budgets would enable a start to be made. Additionally we have £48k in reserves. We may even need to increase the precept slightly but only do it if it brings good value to the majority of residents
keith Jackson 26 May 2011

I expect the Parish Council to keep spending as low as possible commensurate with essential needs. Any extra spending advocated should be scrutinised carefully and if necessary referred to the ratepayers.
Jim Postill - 20 May 2011

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